Summary
- Release Year: 2012
- Genres: Real Time Strategy (RTS), Strategy
- Platforms: Linux, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: The Creative Assembly
- Publishers: Feral Interactive, Sega
Total War: Shogun 2 – Fall of the Samurai: A Clash of Tradition and Modernity
Released in 2012, Total War: Shogun 2 – Fall of the Samurai is a standalone expansion to the award-winning Total War: Shogun 2. It transports players to 19th century Japan, a time of immense upheaval and conflict as the ancient traditions of the samurai clash with the explosive power of modern weaponry.
A Historical Setting
Fall of the Samurai is set during the Bakumatsu period, a tumultuous era that marked the end of Japan’s feudal system and the rise of a modern, industrialized nation. The game faithfully recreates this historical setting, with meticulously detailed battlefields, authentic unit rosters, and a gripping campaign that follows the struggle between the Imperial throne and the last Shogunate.
Gameplay
As in previous Total War games, Fall of the Samurai combines turn-based strategy on a campaign map with real-time battles. The campaign map allows players to manage their empire, build armies, and engage in diplomacy. Battles take place on detailed 3D battlefields, where players command thousands of troops in epic clashes.
New Features
Fall of the Samurai introduces several new features to the Total War series, including:
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Steam-powered units: For the first time in a Total War game, players can field steam-powered warships and trains, adding a new dimension to both land and naval warfare.
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New factions: The expansion adds four new playable factions: the Imperialists, the Shogunate, the Choshu, and the Satsuma. Each faction has its own unique strengths, weaknesses, and unit rosters.
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Improved AI: The AI in Fall of the Samurai is significantly improved, providing a more challenging and engaging experience for players.
Critical Reception
Total War: Shogun 2 – Fall of the Samurai was met with critical acclaim upon release. Reviewers praised the game’s historical accuracy, engaging gameplay, and stunning visuals. The game received numerous awards, including “Best Strategy Game” from IGN and “Game of the Year” from PC Gamer.
Legacy
Fall of the Samurai is considered one of the best Total War games ever made. It has been praised for its innovative gameplay, immersive setting, and historical depth. The game has also been credited with helping to popularize the Bakumatsu period in Western culture.
Conclusion
Total War: Shogun 2 – Fall of the Samurai is a masterpiece of historical strategy gaming. It offers a unique and immersive experience that allows players to explore one of the most fascinating periods in Japanese history. With its stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and historical accuracy, Fall of the Samurai is a must-play for fans of strategy games and history buffs alike.
Review Score
9/10
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